Chicago CTA announces rollout plan for tactile bus stop signs and e-paper displays

In a recent meeting of the Chicago Transit Authority's ADA Advisory Committee, significant strides were discussed regarding the enhancement of accessibility for visually impaired riders. The meeting, held on July 14, 2025, highlighted the ongoing rollout of tactile blue bus stop signs, a project that aims to improve navigation for those with visual impairments.

Since July 2022, the CTA has successfully installed over 3,000 tactile signs across 25 bus routes, with plans to expand this initiative to include more than 10,000 bus stops throughout the city. This ambitious project, funded by a grant from the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), is set to continue with a three-year contract that includes options for further installations. The CTA anticipates completing the full rollout by early 2029, contingent on the production capabilities of their manufacturing partner.

One of the key discussions revolved around the need for additional information on these signs. While the current tactile signs feature raised lettering and Braille indicating the bus stop, stakeholders expressed the desire for more detailed route information. In response, the CTA is exploring a pilot program to add decals beneath the existing signs, providing specific route details and directions. This pilot will target 100 bus stops on five high-ridership routes, aiming to gather feedback from the visually impaired community on the effectiveness and placement of these decals.

The meeting also touched on the durability of these new signs, with concerns about their performance in Chicago's varied weather conditions. The CTA plans to test the resilience of the decals against elements such as heat, cold, and precipitation, ensuring they remain functional and legible for users.

In addition to the tactile signs, the CTA is piloting e-paper displays at select bus stops. These displays will provide real-time bus arrival information and service alerts, enhancing the overall experience for riders. The e-paper signs are designed to be energy-efficient, requiring minimal sunlight to operate, which is particularly beneficial during Chicago's winter months.

As the CTA moves forward with these initiatives, the emphasis on community feedback remains paramount. Committee members encouraged collaboration with local organizations, such as the National Federation of the Blind, to ensure that the needs of visually impaired riders are met effectively. The CTA's commitment to accessibility is evident in their proactive approach to gathering input and making necessary adjustments to their services.

With these developments, the CTA is not only enhancing the transit experience for visually impaired individuals but also setting a precedent for inclusive public transportation in urban environments. As the city prepares for the full implementation of these initiatives, the hope is that they will significantly improve navigation and independence for all riders.